Alvaro Arbeloa has labeled Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior as the ‘best players in the world’ after their important contributions to Real Madrid’s 2-0 win over Villarreal on Saturday.
Los Blancos moved temporarily to the top of the La Liga standings after their 2-0 win at the Estadio de la Ceramica, ahead of Barcelona who face Real Oviedo later today.
It was their third consecutive win over Arbeloa, who took over from Xabi Alonso earlier in the month and had suffered a shock 3-2 defeat to Albacete in the Copa del Rey in his first match in charge.
“They’re the best players in the world, two really dangerous players”, the Spaniard remarked after the match.
“We try to get them as many balls as possible. With Vini on the outside, and Kylian finding space … We’re very happy with them in this form, and above all with the work they’re doing. It’s their effort and solidarity, and they’re being rewarded with goals.”
Mbappe has been in sensational form all season and opened the scoring two minutes into the second half after good work from Vinicius in the buildup.
The Frenchman doubled the advantage in stoppage-time, scoring from the penalty spot to reach 21 league goals for the season.
Vinicius, on the other hand, has enjoyed fine form since the arrival of Arbeloa after much struggles under former head coach Alonso.
The Brazilian was the star of the show during the midweek’s thrashing of Monaco in the Champions League and was also impressive against Villarreal.
“What we’re seeing, just like on Wednesday night, is a great Vinícius”, Arbeloa added.
“We have to make the most of him, and look for him as often as possible, to get him into one-on-ones [with defenders]. It’s what I’ve always said, we’re so lucky to have him.”
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